A Single-Sensor-Based MPPT Controller for Wind-Driven Induction Generators Supplying DC Microgrid

In this paper, a simple method of tracking the maximum power (MP) available in the wind energy conversion system (WECS) for dc microgrid application is proposed. A three-phase diode bridge rectifier along with a dc-dc converter has been employed between the terminals of a wind-driven induction generator and dc microgrid. Induction generator is being operated in self-excited mode with excitation capacitor at stator. The output current of the dc-dc converter, i.e., dc-grid current is considered as a control variable to track the MP in the proposed WECS. Thus, the proposed algorithm for maximum power point tracking (MPPT) is independent of the machine and wind-turbine parameters. This algorithm has been implemented using dsPIC30F4011 controller. Furthermore, a method has been developed for determining the duty ratio of the dc-dc converter for operating the proposed system in MPPT condition using wind-turbine characteristics, steady-state equivalent circuit of a induction generator, and power balance in power converters. Circuit simplicity and simple control algorithm are the major advantages of the proposed configuration for supplying power to the dc microgrid from the proposed small-scale WECS. The successful working of the proposed algorithm for MPPT has been demonstrated with extensive experimental results along with the simulated values.